The Garden State continues to see notable developments in healthcare and dental care, from public health initiatives to professional recognitions, all reflecting ongoing efforts to improve access, quality, and patient outcomes across the state.
State health authorities are currently focusing on transforming care delivery in rural areas. The New Jersey Departments of Health and Human Services are inviting public feedback on the state’s application for the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, a one-time $50 billion fund aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure in underserved regions over the next five years. The initiative seeks to modernize services, improve access, and enhance health equity in communities that have historically faced gaps in care.
On the vaccination front, the New Jersey Department of Health recently issued a directive allowing pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription. The move, effective September 2025, is designed to make immunizations more widely accessible during the 2025–2026 respiratory illness season, particularly for residents in communities where traditional healthcare access is limited. This policy underscores the state’s continued commitment to public health preparedness and disease prevention.
Legislative activity is also shaping the state’s healthcare landscape. Proposed legislation in May 2025 aims to update the professional title of “physician assistant” to “physician associate” to align with national standards set by the American Academy of Physician Associates. Another bill under consideration seeks to streamline physician credentialing by requiring insurance carriers to accept the universal physician application, potentially reducing administrative delays and improving physician onboarding.
However, New Jersey healthcare has also faced challenges. In mid-September, two Passaic County medical groups, Passaic Hospitalist Services and Passaic River Physicians, notified patients about a potential data breach that may have compromised sensitive information. Meanwhile, regulatory enforcement has continued to hold medical professionals accountable. The New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners permanently revoked Dr. John R. McGee’s license in September following allegations of professional misconduct. Additionally, Essex County vascular surgeon Dr. David A. Greuner agreed to a seven-year suspension of his license after investigations found that his endovascular practice deviated significantly from accepted standards of care.
Dental care in New Jersey has also seen notable developments. Adult Medicaid Fee-for-Service dental rates increased by 10% on January 1, 2025, a change aimed at improving access and supporting dental practices that serve low-income populations. The New Jersey Department of Health hosted its inaugural oral health conference in August, focusing on health equity, wellness, and solutions to challenges like low community water fluoridation and limited dental access for pregnant individuals. The event brought together dental professionals, public health leaders, and community advocates to discuss strategies for advancing oral health statewide.
Several New Jersey dental professionals have received recognition for their contributions to the field. Small Dental was named to New Jersey Monthly’s “2025 Jersey Choice Top Dentists” list, Dr. Joseph Moussa of Montclair Dental Spa earned NJ Top Dentist recognition for 2025, and Campi Dental was highlighted in Monmouth Magazine’s “Top Dentists of 2025.” Advanced dental care continues to expand, with providers like Dr. Jay A. Zimmerman, DMD in Mountainside leveraging state-of-the-art imaging, laser treatments, and patient-focused services to enhance care for every patient.
Specialized care is also being celebrated. The National Keratoconus Foundation honored Dr. Steven Greenstein of the Cornea and Laser Eye Institute as its 2025 Ophthalmology Doctor of the Year, marking the third time the institute has received recognition for its dedication to keratoconus patients. This award highlights the institute’s ongoing commitment to advanced treatment and patient education in vision care.
Across New Jersey, new health and dental laws that took effect in January 2025 continue to shape patient experiences. Policies eliminating waiting periods and removing restrictions related to pre-existing conditions for large group health and dental plans are helping residents gain timely access to necessary care while supporting providers in delivering comprehensive services.
From rural healthcare programs to cutting-edge dental treatments, New Jersey is witnessing a dynamic period of growth, innovation, and accountability in both medical and dental sectors. For more updates on healthcare developments, wellness initiatives, and professional advancements across the state, visit Explore New Jersey Health & Wellness to stay informed on the latest news and insights.
